Our Definition

The Tower Foundation has adopted the definition of learning disability used by the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus:

A learning disabilityis a lifelong condition which interferes with the ability to learn. It
is a neurological disorder that affects the ability of the brain to process,
store and respond to information. There are different types of learning
disabilities that can affect different areas of processing, such as learning to
read, reading comprehension, writing and spelling, organizing written and
spoken language, mathematical operations, decision making, and the development
of fine motor skills. Individuals with LD may be particularly gifted in other
skills and are typically of normal intelligence. (American Association for
Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus)

Our
Funding Goals

For our Learning Disabilities category,
we have identified six key goals:

Children
with learning disabilities are identified early, diagnosed and connected to
services that meet their ongoing individual needs.

Youth
with learning disabilities understand how they learn and pursue resources that
support them accordingly.

Young
adults are confident and do not view their learning disability as a liability.

Young
adults with learning disabilities are ready for work and/or educational
pursuits.

Families
are informed about learning disabilities and can identify and navigate
available services.

Communities
value persons with learning disabilities and accommodate their needs.

Preferred
Strategies

While open to creative approaches, some preferred strategies for supporting our goals include:

Screening and Assessment

Community-Based Education and Supports
- Community and Professional Education
- Family Supports